GREEN ECONOMY
The road to Net Zero is becoming increasingly important to businesses.
In June 2019, with the Climate Change Act 2008 (2050 Target Amendment) Order 2019, the Government committed to a 100% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 compared with 1990 levels. This is referred to as the net zero target. Whilst running your business, it is important to understand how you can be more sustainable. There are lots of useful tools and resources, as well as free support programmes available.
Eco-October
In October we hosted Eco-October, to help businesses find out more about sustainable working practices and what you can do to cut your carbon emissions.
Want to make your business a bit greener? Worried how rising energy costs are affecting your business?
To find out more about Eco-October and opportunities available to your business:
- 1:2:1 business consultancy with a sustainability expert
- Webinars on sustainable working practices and how your business can cut its carbon emissions
- EV charging point funding
- EV Car Club in Saffron Walden
- Essex Business Advice Pack
- The Green Skills Pledge
Why is this important?
Consumers are increasingly making spending choices based on climate impact and sustainability
Low carbon credentials are becoming increasingly important in supply chain opportunities
Green innovations, adaptations and new technologies offer increasing efficiency and profitability to businesses
Practical tips for you and your business
How can SMEs begin their journey to carbon neutrality without breaking the bank?
- Understand sustainability - courses such as Carbon Literacy are a great way to start
- Adapt an environment-first based approach to decisions
- Consider the life cycle when providing services
- If you plan to offer a delivery service, look at sustainable options such as electric or hydrogen powered vehicles
- Save energy by turning off electrical equipment including lights when not in use
- Use local suppliers and products where possible
- Consider the environmental credentials of suppliers
- When setting up your website, consider it's carbon footprint - use a green web host
- Look for alternatives to single use plastics and sustainable packaging
- Consider using sustainable print and display solution
Training Opportunities
The Carbon Literacy Project
Retrofit Academy
Sustainable Business Manager
Sources of funding
Workplace Charging Scheme
The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) is a voucher-based scheme that provides eligible applicants with support towards the upfront costs of the purchase and installation of electric vehicle (EV) chargepoints.
See more (Go to Workplace Charging Scheme)The Green Entrepreneurs Programme
Support young entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 30, with a sustainable business idea.
See more (Go to The Green Entrepreneurs Programme)Low Carbon Workplace Grant
This scheme offers grants of between £500 up to a maximum of £5,000 (match funded) to Uttlesford businesses wanting to reduce their carbon footprint.
See more (Go to Low Carbon Workplace Grant)Workplace Charging Scheme
The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) is a voucher-based scheme that provides eligible applicants with support towards the upfront costs of the purchase and installation of electric vehicle (EV) chargepoints.
See more (Go to Workplace Charging Scheme)The Green Entrepreneurs Programme
Support young entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 30, with a sustainable business idea.
See more (Go to The Green Entrepreneurs Programme)Low Carbon Workplace Grant
This scheme offers grants of between £500 up to a maximum of £5,000 (match funded) to Uttlesford businesses wanting to reduce their carbon footprint.
See more (Go to Low Carbon Workplace Grant)Useful resources
We have put together some useful links to help you discover what other businesses are doing and what you could do.